• China’s Geopolitical Blind Spot: Why Beijing Can’t Navigate the New Middle East

    China’s Geopolitical Blind Spot: Why Beijing Can’t Navigate the New Middle East

    China’s growing economic footprint in the Middle East has not been matched by a corresponding geopolitical strategy capable of navigating the region’s persistent security dilemmas. In fact, Beijing’s adherence to non-intervention, quasi-mediatory diplomacy, and strategic risk aversion has constrained its ability to shape regional outcomes, ultimately limiting its influence at…

  • ASEAN’s Data Governance Strategy

    ASEAN’s Data Governance Strategy

    The ASEAN Digital Masterplan aims to triple the size of the regional digital economy by 2030. To build effective technological infrastructure against the backdrop of bipolar competition, ASEAN states must pursue a standardized data governance approach to protect citizens, information, and economic viability. Background: Expansive Digital Economy ASEAN states have…

  • Malaysia in the Middle of the AI Stack: How Capital Flows are Reshaping Supply Chains

    Malaysia in the Middle of the AI Stack: How Capital Flows are Reshaping Supply Chains

    While all eyes in the AI boom are centered on innovation and competition between American and Chinese firms, capital is quietly flowing into the infrastructure that underpins this long-term growth trajectory. Malaysia’s growing role as a key player in the middle of the AI stack, with its environment conducive to…

  • Singapore Is Positioned To Challenge Western Fintech Hubs

    Singapore Is Positioned To Challenge Western Fintech Hubs

    For decades we have lived under the assumption that fintech innovation belongs to the West. San Francisco, New York, and London dominate our interpretation of global finance and technology. When new models of payments and financial infrastructure are created, we have always instinctively looked towards these cities for leadership. But…

  • China’s Quiet Digital Expansion Is Anything but Subtle

    China’s Quiet Digital Expansion Is Anything but Subtle

    China is quietly reshaping the digital landscape. From entertainment and e-commerce platforms including TikTok and Lazada, to breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and technological manufacturing, Chinese firms are extending influence across Asia, Europe, and beyond. Although, Western nations have imposed export controls, restrictions, and regulatory barriers, China adapts and innovates within…